Close-up of two RJ45 connectors hugged by an orange Ethernet port, with text: "RJ45 Connectors: What They Are and Top Uses Explained" on a blue background.

RJ45 connectors: what they are and top uses explained

By Jessica Cardona

What is RJ45?

RJ45 Connectors (RJ) is a standard physical network interface that connects telecommunications and data equipment. RJ45 connectors are commonly used for Ethernet networking. Although it looks like a telephone jack but is slightly wider, it can be used for Ethernet networking. Ethernet cables are often referred to as RJ45 cables because they have an RJ45 connector at each end.

RJ45 Connectors use a variety of physical connectors, including the 50-pin miniature ribbon connector and the modular connector.

Most people use the terms RJ45, modular plug, 8P8C, and end-to-end connector interchangeably since they all refer to the piece attached to an Ethernet cable and plug it into a TV or computer. It’s amazing to see the confusion surrounding this small, unassuming part. 

8P8C RJ45 is the correct name for the RJ45 plug. This long name really explains it. The 8P8C stands for eight position/eight conductor. When attached to an Ethernet cable, it is known as an RJ45-8P8C plug. RJ stands for registered Jack, while the number 45 refers to the listing.

How Can it Be Used With IoT Devices?

The RJ45 connector is commonly used to connect ethernet wires, most typically CAT5 and CAT6. This connector allows you to plug a wire into any port on a device without tying it to the device itself. It is also generally used for printers and network storage devices. However, you might not know that RJ45 cables can also be used with IoT devices such as smart homes.

The RJ45 connector is one of the most popular and widely used twisted-pair cables. It is a standardized interface for networking and contains eight pins and wires. The pins are separated by a space of approximately 1mm and are used to connect two devices. An RJ45 connector is often used to connect computers to an Ethernet network. Its eight-pin configuration is also referred to as 8P8C.

 Person with a blue rj45 connectors in hand, ready to connect their laptop to the network, highlighting the importance of connectivity.

M12 versus RJ45 Ethernet connections systems

The M12 connector system is superior to the RJ45 socket and connector when it comes to survival in hostile factory environments. This combination was initially intended only to hook up a telephone device. Industrial Ethernet cabling requires reliable and well-built connections.

Is there a size that fits all?

Absolutely not. RJ45 connectors are identical in dimension on the outside (they must be, fit into any RJ45 port), but the inside is where there are the most differences. 

Understanding RJ45 Cable Types

If you plan to connect two computers, you will need to know the different RJ45 cable types. These cables are commonly used for telephone and network connections. Twisted-pair cabling has four pairs of wires or twisted pairs. Twisted-pair cables are a better choice if you need to connect two devices over long distances. They have better signal transmission rates and shielding from crosstalk. However, they are more expensive than other cables and require a lot more complicated installation.

Summary

Which type of connector is best suited for Industrial Ethernet? Customers need to answer this question on a case-by-case basis as neither RJ45 nor the M12 is the best connector for all Ethernet systems. Industrial Ethernet networks will combine RJ45 and R12 connection technologies to meet their needs.

If you would like to receive a quote for any of custom cables or connectors, please do not hesitate to contact us by sending an email to sales@readytogocables.com or calling in the USA this phone number (682-325-1944).